Phylosophy

As we continue on toward the final part of Week 1 (even though it feels like we just got started), I have some helpful advice to offer you.

First off, your papers will need to be in APA format. Because of this, I wanted to let everyone know that I am posting something under “Doc Sharing” for you. It is a sample APA paper you can use as a template or your assignments. It will show you the correct format, as well as how to pattern your reference list. Just in time for Assignment 3! Be sure to use it for your other classes too.

Second thing. Regarding format, I want both parts of the essay in one document (it’ll save me the hassle of downloading twice as many on my temperamental laptop). Also, please make sure the paper is in APA format. (As the course moves forward I will eforce this more strictly, but I’ll give you some slack at first.)

I would like a detailed explanation of the issue you choose. Both sides if it’s a controversial issue (like gun control) or different perspectives if it’s a question of understanding something. You could even explain a pro and a con from either side.

Third, there’s the dialogue portion. Try to read the following exchange and then try to come up with your own response. Imagine a conversation between Socrates and one of his followers on any topic. For example … Friendship. I’m going to borrow an example from Plato’s book, Lysis, to demonstrate. Socrates loved to ask questions and challenge people, even about obvious things. 

I want you to imagine something like this:

Socrates: Lysis, you have lots of friends. I don’t understand what a “friend” is … but since you have so many friends you should be able to explain.

Lysis: Sure Socrates. A friend is someone who does good things for you.

Socrates: Someone who helps you?

Lysis: Yes.

Socrates: So my slave must be my best friend, since he helps me the most?

Lysis: NO no no, slaves are not friends. Let me think … Okay, friends are good people.

Socrates: Friends are good people, you say? But … don’t bad people have friends too?

Lysis: I suppose they do …

Socrates: Couldn’t two bad people be friends with one another?

Lysis: I suppose they could …

Socrates: So if I understand correctly, a friend could be a bad person who doesn’t help me, as long as he is not a slave.

Lysis: Socrates, now I am confused. I don’t think I know what a friend is either!

🙂